The Dexter Corner Shoppe LLC, founded by Jo-Cinda Evans, began as a vision to bring something special to her hometown: a place where residents could shop locally for unique gifts while supporting local artisans and small-scale creators. With no formal business background and a degree in criminal justice, Jo-Cinda relied on lessons learned from her parents’ small businesses, along with the support of her family, to turn a long-held idea into reality.
After opening in November 2024 with just five vendors, the shop quickly gained momentum. What began as a small retail concept evolved into a local marketplace featuring nearly 20 artisans, crafters, and antique vendors, each contributing their own creativity and perspective. As demand grew, so did the opportunity to expand. By May 2025, Jo-Cinda moved the business into a space nearly three times its original size, creating more room for inventory, vendor participation, and customer browsing space. With guidance from the North Central New York Small Business Development Center, Jo-Cinda turned her concept into a sustainable, growing small business.
Assistance Provided
Business Advisor:
Keyona Kelly
In the early stages of development, Jo-Cinda worked with North Central SBDC Business Advisor Keyona Kelly to navigate the challenges of starting a business without prior experience. Through one-on-one advising, she received guidance, direction, and critical early-stage support that helped her evaluate her idea, think strategically about her path forward, and build the confidence needed to take action.
This support helped turn early uncertainty into forward momentum. With SBDC guidance, Jo-Cinda was able to move from an idea with no formal plan or budget into a fully operational storefront, supported by a growing network of local vendors and a clear vision for expansion.
Reflecting on her experience working with Advisor Keyona Kelly at the North Central SBDC, Jo-Cinda shared:
“I had so many doubts, and I really had no plans, no budget, no experience, only an idea that had been dormant for years… but after talking with you and doing a little research and gathering information, I jumped in.
You helped me have confidence to move forward. And now, nine months later, I can’t believe that I’ve expanded and have a waiting list of people who want to be a part of it! Had I not come to the SBDC and spoken with you, I would not have had the information or the confidence to move forward and open The Dexter Corner Shoppe!”
The Dexter Corner Shoppe
Founded in 2024, The Dexter Corner Shoppe is a retail business offering unique gifts, antiques, repurposed items, and locally crafted goods. The shop serves as both a retail destination and a platform for local artisans to showcase and sell their work, strengthening the local economy and fostering a sense of community.
Today, the business reflects the role community-driven entrepreneurship can play in supporting local makers and local shopping options. Its growth, expanding vendor network, and increasing demand point to strong local support and a clear vision for the future.
** Our success stories focus on the work the SBDC has done with our small business clients and do not constitute an expressed or implied endorsement by the NYSBDC of the company and/or its products and services.
Reflecting on her experience working with her SBDC Business Advisor, “You asked me questions that made me consider my path very carefully and helped me believe I really could do it—and gave me the confidence to move forward.”
Jo-Cinda Evans | Owner of The Dexter Corner Shoppe
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